My black MB has started to make slight popping/creaking noises when I open the screen, esp. if it's cold and I haven't used it for a while. My guess is it is the plastic flexing/wearing but I thought I'd ask you all who have them if it's anything to worry about. The hinge seems to open/close just fine, but I remember when I got it it was quiet.

That doesn't sound at all normal to me - it's as if the plastic has a buckle in it or some bit of plastic has torn away and is interfering with the top opening, thus the clicking sound there. If I had that problem I'd have mine to an Apple Store right away.

Are you still under warranty? Or under Apple care? If so, they should repair that or replace the hinge at the least. If you're not covered, I'd still check it out with Apple, maybe they'll fix it for you anyhow, or for cheap

Well, I went to the Apple store yesterday while my fiance was shopping at the mall and I was able to take a look at the blackbooks on display. It appears they all sort of do it in one way or another, so I imagine there's either not much they can do about it or it's semi-normal. The sales guy I talked to said that the black ones are a little noisier than the white books ("...made of a different material, so it creaks a little depending on how you open it or pick it up.")

I was opening and closing my MB, and mine did a sort of popping sound when I opened it. I noticed that the bottom of the screen butts up against the base part as I open it. not so much to keep it from opening, though. I should post a YT vid, if that was unclear.

I have a black MacBook and mine does the same thing occasionally. I have found that if I am opening it at a funny angle (i.e. on my lap or couch) then i will get a noise but I'm pretty sure you have nothing to worry about. Part of it may also be the natural expansion of the plastic due to thermal changes. Again, not a big deal, just a little noise is all.

Thx guys! You know, come to think of it seems to only make sound when I have it on a hard surface like a desk or counter.

If I have it on my lap, it makes no sound. It will most definitely make the popping sound if I open the lid holding anywhere but in the center (above the isight). The sound seems to come from the seam between the display lid, and the hinge cover on the bottom that runs across the back of the display.